What the Mariners should do this offseason

The Mariners have signed catcher John Jaso and reliever George Sherrill, but it’s difficult to believe general manager Jack Zduriencik is ready for spring training.

Here’s a list of some additional moves the team should make before reconvening in Peoria in February. Some are common sense, while others are a bit less likely.

But one thing is certain: The Mariners will have to get creative and maybe spend more money to have a chance in the American League West.

Photo: Getty Images

Image 1of/6

Caption

Close

Image 1 of 6

Sign Prince Fielder: There are a lot of reasons why this won't happen. Fielder is thought to be looking for about $200 million over 10 years, which is too rich for the Mariners. And he might not even want to play in Seattle. But a blockbuster signing would send a message that even in a division with Albert Pujols and the entire Rangers lineup, the Mariners intend to compete. Maybe not in 2012, but in a couple of seasons Fielder could be the centerpiece of a talented team. less

Sign Prince Fielder: There are a lot of reasons why this won't happen. Fielder is thought to be looking for about $200 million over 10 years, which is too rich for the Mariners. And he might not even want to ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 2 of 6

Trade Chone Figgins: The Mariners would have to take on another bad contract in a straight-up swap (Barry Zito?). But the only way to salvage the Figgins deal is to trade him for more dead weight and hope the change of scenery is enough to spark a renaissance. less

Trade Chone Figgins: The Mariners would have to take on another bad contract in a straight-up swap (Barry Zito?). But the only way to salvage the Figgins deal is to trade him for more dead weight and hope the ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 3 of 6

Trade Brandon League: A dominant closer isn't worth as much to a team that is hoping to finish third in its division. League has more value as a trading chip, particularly on a market with relatively few closers available. less

Trade Brandon League: A dominant closer isn't worth as much to a team that is hoping to finish third in its division. League has more value as a trading chip, particularly on a market with relatively few ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 4 of 6

Sign Jamie Moyer: Why not? The 49-year-old lefty is returning from Tommy John surgery and has said he just wants a chance to make a team. The Seattle resident would be a hit with fans and would provide stability and leadership at the back end of the rotation, at least until younger prospects are ready for the majors. less

Sign Jamie Moyer: Why not? The 49-year-old lefty is returning from Tommy John surgery and has said he just wants a chance to make a team. The Seattle resident would be a hit with fans and would provide ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 5 of 6

Lock up Michael Pineda: The right-hander has been talked about as potential trade bait, but if the Mariners have anything going for them it's young pitching. By signing Pineda to a long-term deal now, they can avoid annual arbitration raises and send a signal that they will retain homegrown talent, much like they did when they re-signed Felix Hernandez. less

Lock up Michael Pineda: The right-hander has been talked about as potential trade bait, but if the Mariners have anything going for them it's young pitching. By signing Pineda to a long-term deal now, they can ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 6 of 6

Trade Justin Smoak: If it's a question of Mike Carp or Smoak at first base, Smoak probably has more value in a trade despite the players' similar numbers and makeup. Getting something for Smoak is better than having him platoon with Carp. less

Trade Justin Smoak: If it's a question of Mike Carp or Smoak at first base, Smoak probably has more value in a trade despite the players' similar numbers and makeup. Getting something for Smoak is better than ... more